Senate debates

Wednesday, 16 October 2019

Motions

Abortion

3:54 pm

Photo of Mehreen FaruqiMehreen Faruqi (NSW, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I, and also on behalf of Senator Waters, move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that the New South Wales Parliament passed a Bill to decriminalise abortion on 25 September 2019; and

(b) congratulates and thanks all the women and activists who have worked tirelessly for decades to achieve this important reform.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Photo of Sue LinesSue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | | Hansard source

As this motion involves a matter of conscience, in line with longstanding practice, government senators are free to vote in accordance with their own conscience on the substantive motion.